ALL you need to enjoy cycling is a bicycle and a sense of adventure, according to a man who is helping to get mid Cheshire on two wheels.

As British Cycling turns its attention to Cheshire, the Guardian’s Pedal Power campaign speaks to Peter Haymes, the organisation’s north west recreation manager.

Peter said: “Cycling is the only sporting activity that can target people’s own health, save people money, help the environment, reduce pollution and reduce congestion and there’s so many different types.

“I’m a recreational cyclist myself because I just love it – there’s no better way to see places, to go at a pace where you can appreciate your surroundings and a pace where you get the opportunity to stop for coffee and cake.

“If you’re racing along in the car you miss so much.

“All you really need is a bike and a sense of adventure.

“Even if you haven’t ridden a bike for 20 years you remember how to do it, it’s about having the courage and the opportunity to do it.”

British Cycling, which traditionally catered for elite athletes, turned its focus to grass roots cycling when it teamed up with Sky in 2009.

Now a large proportion of its work is making sure everyday people have those alll-important opportunities to cycle, with the Sky Ride and Breeze programmes of led rides starting in Cheshire this summer.

Peter said: “Take away any perception about Lycra and pace and about riding on roads at 30mph.

“Sky Ride is about getting people gently back into cycling.

“They’re easygoing rides, often off-road, in parks and at a very tranquil pace.

“Sky Ride really is to ease people back into the world of cycling, much like Breeze.”

The difference between the two initiatives is that while Breeze is for women only, Sky Ride welcomes men, women and children.

Peter added: “This is the first year for both these programmes in Cheshire. It’s a beautiful place to cycle and perfect because it offers something for everyone, there’s flat routes, off road routes, canal tow paths and more of a challenge with some hills as well.”

British Cycling is also working in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council and Sport Cheshire, which is based at Gadbrook Park, to inspire Cheshire to cycle.

For more information about Sky Ride and Breeze, and to find a ride, visit goskyride.com.